UK Dependant Student Visa 2025: Rules, Fees & Requirements

There are multiple types of visas through which dependents can join their family members in the UK. Here’s a breakdown of the most common categories -

1. PBS Dependant Visas

The Points-Based System (PBS) allows dependents—spouses, partners, and children of certain visa holders (like Skilled Worker, Global Talent, and Innovator Founder visa holders) to live in the UK. Dependants may study and work (with some restrictions) but cannot access public funds. The visa duration typically aligns with the main applicant’s visa.

2. Student Visa Dependents

As per the UK student dependent visa new rules, from January 1, 2024, only students enrolled in PhD programs or research-based postgraduate courses (RQF Level 8 or higher) are allowed to bring dependents. Eligible dependents can work and study in the UK but must meet specific UK dependant visa requirements.

3. Adult Dependant Relative (ADR) Visa

This visa is available for elderly parents or close relatives requiring long-term care that cannot be provided in their home country. It's one of the most difficult visas to qualify for due to strict criteria and a high proof burden.

Eligibility to be considered a dependant under the dependant visa UK varies slightly depending on the primary applicant’s visa category, but typically includes -

• Spouse or Civil Partner - Legally married or registered partnerships with valid documentation.
• Unmarried Partner - Must demonstrate a genuine relationship and at least two years of cohabitation (e.g., shared rental agreements, joint accounts).
• Children - Generally under 18 at the time of application. Children over 18 may qualify if they were previously granted dependent status and continue to live with and be financially supported by the parent(s).
• Parents - In rare cases, such as ADR visas, elderly parents who require personal care not available in their home country can apply.

Each relationship requires detailed proof, such as birth or marriage certificates, tenancy agreements, or financial support documentation. It's crucial to ensure the evidence meets UK dependent visa requirements, as a lack of proof is a common reason for rejection.

To qualify for a dependant visa UK, applicants must satisfy the following core criteria -

1. Valid Relationship

• You must prove your relationship to the main applicant through:
• Marriage or civil partnership certificates.
• Two years of cohabitation for unmarried partners.
• Birth certificates for dependent children.

2. Main Applicant’s Visa Type

Only certain visa types allow dependents. Under the UK student dependent visa new rules, only PhD or research-based postgraduate students can bring their family. Most skilled workers, Innovator Founder, and Global Talent visa holders can sponsor dependents.

3. Financial Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate sufficient funds to support themselves without public assistance -

• For Skilled Workers - £285 (spouse), £315 (first child), £200 (additional children).
• For Students - £845/month in London or £680/month outside London for up to 9 months.

These funds must be held for 28 consecutive days before applying. Dependents already in the UK for over 12 months may be exempt from this requirement.

4. Accommodation

Proof of suitable accommodation is required (e.g., tenancy agreement or property ownership documents).

5. Additional Criteria

• TB test (if from a listed country)
• Police clearance (if applicable)
• Health insurance or payment of the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

Understanding and fulfilling the UK dependant visa requirements is key to avoiding processing delays or rejections.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for a dependent student visa UK or other dependent visa types:

Step 1 - Check Eligibility

Ensure the primary visa holder’s category permits dependents and verify all relationship and financial criteria.

Step 2 - Collect Required Documents

Gather all necessary documents according to the guidelines above. If the originals are in another language, ensure the translations are official.

Step 3 - Complete Online Application

Visit the official UK visa site. Fill in the application, using the principal applicant’s Global Web Form (GWF) or Unique Application Number (UAN). Family linking codes (if provided) should be added to connect applications.

Step 4 - Pay Visa Fees

Visa fees depend on the principal applicant’s visa type. Payment is made online using a debit/credit card.

Step 5 - Verify Identity

Biometric verification is required. This can be done via:

• UK Immigration ID Check app
• In-person appointment at a visa application centre

Step 6 - Submit Documents

Submit either digitally or in person at the appointment. Make sure everything aligns with the details provided in your application.

Step 7 - Wait for Decision

Processing typically takes 8 weeks. Priority (5 days) or super-priority (24 hours) services are available at extra cost.

Step 8 - Visa Issuance

If approved, you’ll receive a visa confirmation and instructions for travel or BRP (Biometric Residence Permit) collection.

A dependent visa for the UK offers families the opportunity to live together during study or work abroad. With recent updates to the UK student dependent visa, new rules, eligibility criteria, and documentation must be carefully reviewed. From relationship proof to financial documentation, preparing a comprehensive application is critical. Azent’s expert consultants are here to help you navigate this complex process with ease, ensuring your loved ones are never far away.